Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Friday affirmed that nearly all states are actively implementing the National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020). Even states that may seem hesitant are, in fact, incorporating the policy, albeit using different terminology, he added.
Speaking at IIT-Hyderabad during the inauguration of IInvenTiv 2024, described as the country's largest Research and Development Innovation Fair from Higher Education Institutions, Pradhan expressed his satisfaction with the extensive implementation of NEP 2020 across states. He highlighted that the policy is a profound and historic document, emphasizing its philosophical significance.
"Pleased to inaugurate #IinvenTiv2024 at IIT Hyderabad. Glad that in the second edition, we have enlarged the scope of this innovation showcase and have taken this event beyond IITs," Pradhan said.
He commended the event's extensive participation from Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) and the industry, anticipating that IInvenTiv would become an iconic brand in the technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship sector.
Responding to inquiries about the government's plans to extend the scale and quality of Research and Development (R&D) from premier institutions to tier-2 and tier-3 cities, Pradhan emphasized that it is a misconception to consider IITs as the sole quality institutions. He asserted that IITians, while achieving globally, coexist with numerous examples of non-IITians contributing significantly within the country.
The 'IInvenTiv' initiative, according to Pradhan, provides a level playing field for innovation and research.
During the event's inauguration ceremony, Pradhan highlighted India's historical prowess in innovation and stressed that modern India, acting as 'Vishwa Mitra,' is leveraging technology for progress. He noted the country's determination to achieve the goal of 'Viksit Bharat' (developed India) by 2047, with a primary focus on research, innovation, and entrepreneurship as transformative drivers.
Recognizing the 'Indian Model of Development,' Pradhan emphasized the balance between a market economy and a welfare economy, citing the country's strength. He underscored the need to shift focus to the manufacturing sector, aiming for it to contribute at least 25% to the GDP, as part of India's journey towards becoming a manufacturing hub.
Pradhan outlined government initiatives, including 'Make In India,' 'Invest in India,' PLI Scheme, and FDI liberalization, aimed at strengthening the manufacturing sector. He expressed confidence that these measures would propel India towards becoming the third-largest economy and achieving the target of a five-trillion-dollar economy.
In the context of the NEP, Pradhan highlighted India's rich knowledge civilization and historical contributions to astronomy, mathematics, medicine, and practical arts. He expressed optimism that research and innovation aligned with NEP objectives would lead to greater scientific validation of India's traditional knowledge on a global scale.
Acknowledging India's advancements in innovation under Prime Minister Modi's guidance, Pradhan highlighted the flourishing startup culture and the significant rise in enterprises, indicating a substantial growth of over 300 times in nine years.
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